When It Pours, It Warns: Schools Shut as Orange Alert Sounds Alarm

Chennai faces persistent heavy rainfall under an orange alert as a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal nears the Tamil Nadu coast. Schools are closed as precautionary measures, while authorities prepare for potential cyclone intensification expected later this week, urging residents to stay alert amid flood risks.

Chennai and several districts in Tamil Nadu are grappling with heavy rainfall as the northeast monsoon intensifies, bringing disruptions, school closures, and weather alerts amid mounting concerns over an approaching cyclonic system in the Bay of Bengal. The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) has issued an orange alert for Chennai and adjoining areas, indicating very heavy rainfall expected over the next 24 hours.

Key Highlights

Cyclone Warning: A low-pressure area over the Bay of Bengal has intensified into a well-marked low-pressure system, poised to develop into a depression by Wednesday afternoon, potentially escalating into a cyclone that could impact northern Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, and southern Andhra Pradesh coasts.

School Closures: Chennai’s district administration ordered schools to remain closed on October 22 as a safety precaution. Similar closures are in effect in districts like Cuddalore, Villupuram, Ranipet, Chengalpattu, and Tiruchirappalli. Puducherry and Karaikal have also announced holiday closures for educational institutions.

Heavy Rainfall Alerts: The RMC issued a red alert for eight districts including Villupuram and Cuddalore with predicted rainfall exceeding 20 cm in 24 hours. The orange alert covers Chennai and nearby districts with expected 11-20 cm rainfall.

Government Response: Chief Minister M.K. Stalin conducted review meetings and directed officials to be prepared with relief camps, emergency equipment like JCB machines, motor pumps, boats, and trucks to manage potential flooding and rescue operations.

Fishermen Advisory: Fishermen have been warned against venturing into the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and South Andaman Sea between October 23 and 26 due to squally winds reaching 45-55 kmph with gusts up to 65 kmph.

Current Impact: Persistent showers have caused waterlogging in low-lying areas, intensified sea turbulence at Chennai’s Marina Beach, and disrupted daily life. Authorities urge residents to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the alert period.

As Chennai braces for the cyclone’s potential impacts, preparedness and caution remain paramount, with continuous updates expected from meteorological and government bodies.

Sources: Times of India, Economic Times, India Today, Indian Express, ABP Live

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